"Unemployment checks can help families cover their rent or mortgage payments, pay for utilities and transportation, and keep food on the table," said Julia Isaacs and Olivia Healy who co-authored the analysis.

Poverty has tripled among parents who have not had a job for six months or more -- from 12 percent to 35 percent.

Lately, the social impact of long-term unemployment is also gaining attention, especially after the monthly jobs report last week showed that many are losing heart and dropping out of the workforce.